ISSN:
1432-1238
Keywords:
Key words High-frequency ventilation
;
Noise production
;
Newborn
;
Neonatal intensive care unit
;
Decibel
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Medicine
Notes:
Abstract Objective: To test the hypothesis that neonatal high-frequency ventilators create different noise levels depending upon ventilator settings and device-specific properties.¶Materials: Three neonatal ventilators with built-in high-frequency options (Babylog 8000, Infant Star, Stephanie) and an exclusive high-frequency oscillator (SensorMedics 3100A).¶Measurements: Noise levels were recorded by a microphone and measured by a decibel recording device at a defined distance from a test lung.¶Results: Noise levels were highest for the SensorMedics and the Babylog (70 dB and 62 dB, respectively). Whereas the SensorMedics increased noise production with amplitude, the Babylog remained at a constant level. The Infant Star (52 dB) and the Stephanie (54 dB) were significantly less noisy at their maximum levels of amplitude (40 mbar and 50 mbar, respectively).¶Conclusion: Most levels recorded were below those measured within an incubator without the use of a ventilator. We conclude that neonatal high-frequency ventilators do not represent a major contribution to noise levels for newborns in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s001340050016
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